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McLaren may bring brawny sports car to Paris motor show

McLaren's debut for the Paris motor show is expected to be based on the MP4-12C sports car, shown.

McLaren is expected to launch a high-performance version of the MP4-12C sports car at the Paris motor show later this month.

Code-named P12, the car is understood to be based on the MP4-12C's carbon-fiber tub but clothed in a dramatic new carbon-fiber body styled by McLaren chief designer Frank Stephenson.

To tease the new shape, McLaren released an arty image-a sketchy outline described by brightly colored lines of light. The outline appears to show a more sculpted shape, particularly over the front wheels, and a deeper windshield reminiscent of the early '90s F1.

McLaren insiders have described the styling as "bigger, angrier and more functional looking" than the MP4-12C, although styling cues from both the MP4-12C and the original F1 will be carried over. Active aerodynamics will be used.

McLaren's range-topper has been written into its product plan ever since the company decided to launch a new family of supercars.

A third variant is code-named P13. It is designed to be a lower-power, higher-sales-volume model.

Early rumors suggested that the P12 will have at least 700 hp, possibly from a V10 version of the MP4-12C's V8. The MP4-12C is designed around a modular engine that can be engineered in multiple configurations-ranging from V6 to V12. But more recent information indicates that the P12 might use a higher-output V8. Like the twin-turbo V8 in the MP4-12C, the P12's engine is expected to be designed and built by Ricardo at a dedicated factory in Shoreham, U.K.

McLaren is remaining secretive about its Paris car, releasing little official information. "The next exciting chapter of the brand will begin in Paris later this month. The stage is set and the story will unfold over the coming weeks," said the company in a short statement.